Southwick School students create community wall mural

NORTHFIELD — Southwick School recently completed its innovative Artist-in-Residence program, with ceramic artist Teresa Taylor, owner of Salty Dog Pottery in Barnstead.

Taylor guided students, teachers, staff, and volunteers in the creation of a collaborative clay tile wall mural that celebrates the Southwick School Community. The project focused on crafting individual ceramic tiles that formed a cohesive and inspiring piece of art hung prominently in the school’s lobby.

This Artist-in-Residence program was designed to provide students with a unique, hands-on opportunity to engage with a professional artist, explore the ceramic process, experiment with creative techniques, and create a collaborative mural that symbolizes the community of learners at Southwick School. 

“We were elated to hear Teresa express the value of community and making lasting connections through her art form. She demonstrated enthusiasm in working with all of our students and adults to create a permanent clay mural. The

experience made lasting memories for all where students will be able to return to Southwick to view and reminisce their part in its creation,” said Art Teacher Julie Swain.

The artist in residency, which began in April, concluded with a celebratory assembly in June where the completed mural was unveiled. Students and adults were overjoyed to see the results of their beautiful and colorful artwork together as one.

“I enjoyed seeing all of the tiles being painted and how they looked when they were put together dry,” said a third grade student.  

“I liked how we could use new clay tools that we had never seen before!” said another third grader. 

 “When we put the paint on top of the black tiles, you could see the patterns and textures,” said a first grader.

This artist-in-residency was supported in part by a grant from the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding was also made possible through W.R.S.D. and Southwick PTO.

For more information, visit ss.wrsdsau59.org.